The Fantastic Folded Art of Isaac Salazar

"I never imagined that my work would have generated such a positive impact."

Isaac Salazar was looking for a hobby when his wife suggested that he try folding a design in the pages of a book. The inspiration came from simpler book decorations they had seen in a model home.

"It dawned on me that it could be used as a way to inspire people, and could also be considered art," said Salazar. The designs are made up of folded pages with minor cuts, and they take anywhere from three days to two weeks to complete.

"Being able to give books a new life is a wonderful feeling."

Many of the books Salazar works with were rescued from the local library's discard pile. "I'm happy to know that books have not lost their edge," he said.

"Being conscientious of waste is also a big part of what drives me."

The green component to Salazar's work helps spur him on. "Day after day landfills are filled with so much waste," said Salazar. "Knowing that I keep a small part of what others may consider trash and turn it into a treasure is very gratifying."

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"I bring new meaning to the book."

Sometimes, the content of the book itself serves as inspiration. "If the title of a book represents a positive and inspiring message that also meshes with the word or design I fold into the book, I can't help but feel that what I am creating is meant to be," said Salazar.

"It gives me a great deal of pride knowing that my hobby provides inspiration, art and in a small way also helps the environment."

After he photographs his work for clients, Salazar typically sells the books or uses them to promote his art in galleries.